Duodenal atresia

The cause of duodenal atresia is unknown. It is thought to result from problems during an embryo's development, in which the duodenum does not change from a solid to a tube-like structure, as it normally would.

Many infants with duodenal atresia also have Down syndrome. Duodenal atresia is often associated with other birth defects.

Symptoms of duodenal atresia include:

• Upper abdominal swelling (sometimes)
• Early vomiting of large amounts, which may be greenish (containing bile)
• Continued vomiting even when infant has not been fed for several hours
• No urination after first few voidings
• No bowel movements after first few meconium stools

A fetal ultrasound may show excessive amounts of amniotic fluid in the womb (polyhydramnios). It may also show swelling of the baby's stomach and part of the duodenum.

An abdominal x-ray may show air in the stomach and first part of duodenum, with no air beyond that. This is known as the double-bubble sign.

A tube is placed to decompress the stomach. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances are corrected by providing fluids through an intravenous tube (IV, into a vein). Checking for other congenital anomalies should be done.

Surgery to correct the duodenal blockage is necessary, but not an emergency. The exact surgery will depend on the nature of the abnormality. Other problems (such as those related to Down syndrome) must be treated as appropriate.

Recovery from the duodenal atresia is expected after treatment. Untreated, the condition is deadly.

These complications may occur:

• Other birth defects
• Dehydration

After surgery, there may be late complications such as:

• Swelling of the first part of the small bowel
• Problems with movement through the intestines
• Gastroesophageal reflux

Call your health care provider if your newborn is:

• Feeding poorly or not at all
• Vomiting (not simply spitting up) or if the vomit is green
• Not urinating or having bowel movements

There is no known prevention.